Amazon has introduced its latest Fire HD 8 tablet, with generative AI-powered tools being the standout feature. However, these tools aren’t exclusive to the new model; they’ll also be available on the Fire HD 10 and Fire Max 11 tablets.
This move allows a wider range of users to benefit from the AI enhancements without needing to upgrade. The new features include a writing assist tool, webpage summaries through the Silk browser, and a wallpaper creator, all set to roll out later this month to compatible devices.
The AI tools are designed to improve user experience. The writing assist feature helps users refine their writing and is embedded directly in the keyboard. Webpage summaries provide quick overviews of online content, a handy tool for those using Amazon’s Silk browser.
Additionally, users can create custom wallpapers by providing a prompt, further enhancing the personalization of their tablets. These features are aimed at making the devices more versatile for everyday use.
Amazon detailed which tablets would receive these updates. The Writing Assist and Wallpaper Creator will be available on the Fire Max 11 (2023), Fire HD 10 (2023), and Fire HD 8 (2022 and 2024).
Meanwhile, Webpage Summaries will be accessible on a broader range of devices, including older models like the Fire HD 10 (2019, 2021, and 2023) and Fire HD 8 (2018, 2020, 2022, and 2024). This ensures that users with older Fire tablets can still take advantage of some of the new AI functionalities. Although an upgraded, paid version of Alexa has been rumored, it was not part of this announcement.
In terms of hardware, the new Fire HD 8 tablet brings some upgrades from the previous model. It now comes with 3GB of RAM, up from 2GB, which may help the device handle the new AI features better. The back camera has also been upgraded from 2MP to 5MP, allowing for clearer photos.
Other specifications remain similar to past models, such as 13 hours of battery life and storage options of 32GB or 64GB, expandable via a microSD card. These improvements aim to make the tablet more efficient and user-friendly.
The new Fire HD 8 is already available for purchase in three colors: black, emerald, and hibiscus. Although its starting price is $99.99, it’s currently on sale for $54.99 ahead of Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days. Additionally, there are hints that Amazon may release updated Kindle e-readers soon, with a brighter screen, as suggested by a recent listing from a Spanish retailer.
